Marathon and Middle Keys Report
Capt. Bob Brown
February 26, 2012
Marathon - Saltwater Fishing Report
Warm weather in February has changed the landscape a bit from normal winter fishing. Plenty of Dolphin (Mahi-Mahi) have been around offshore lately along with some nice Blackfin Tuna, Skipjack Tuna, Wahoo and a few Sailfish. The gulf stream has been kind of far offshore lately, 15 miles south of Sombrero Light at last report. Some of the best Dolphin fishing this week has been 15-23 miles offshore and near the Marathon west hump. The far out gulf stream has also caused there to be little or no current along the middle Keys reef edge making the fishing tough at times for Sailfish. The migration of fish along the Keys back toward Mexico should be starting anytime so look for an influx of sailfish into the area and for the bite to heat up when tailing conditions prevail.
Reef fishing has been excellent for King Mackerel with some in the 30lb class hitting the docks at the 7 mile marina this week. Plenty of good action on Yellowtail Snapper, Mangrove Snapper and Grouper also. Cero Mackerel have been hitting on the reef patches also.
Large Cobia have also been common lately for those looking in the sandy bottom areas of Hawk's channel from Long Key To Bahia Honda Key. Cobia have been following Rays, find the Ray - find the Cobia! Not that easy sometimes as a tower is normally required for the best results, but some nice Cobia have been caught by reef fishermen who just happen to be near the path of the traveling fish.
Tarpon action is heating up at the famous 7 mile bridge here in Marathon and several Captains out of the 7 mile marina are reporting catching and releasing tarpon of 80lb. or so. So the migration is 'on'. Look for tarpon fishing to continue to improve as we get into March.
Speaking of Tarpon, if you have any interest in fishing a Tarpon tournament here in the middle Keys, we have two of the longest running tournaments in Florida right here in Marathon. The 46th Annual Marathon International Tournament will be held May 3,4 & 5, 2012. The 36th Annual Ladies Tarpon Tournament will be held May 11 & 12, 2012. For details you can email [email protected]. These tournaments have low entry fees, some excellent prizes and benefit local charities.
If you would like more info on fishing in the Marathon and middle Keys areas, check out our web site. Good luck in all your fishing adventures!
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